In the framework of the ongoing work of the High-Level Expert Group on Key Enabling Technologies (KETs), this Open Day is organised by the Working Group on Nanotechnologies in order to consult a broad stakeholder audience on the needs and challenges of the sector, contributing to the development of appropriate policy measures to promote the industrial deployment of KETs.

The development of nanotechnologies in and from Europe for more societal benefits

The design and use of nanotechnologies is leading to breakthrough technologies with the potential to respond to global challenges such as health, energy efficiency, mobility and climate change. For this reason, the European Commission included nanotechnologies in the list of “key enabling technologies” whose development is considered essential for Europe and the rest of the world.

In order to ensure European leadership in this field, a transparent and cross-sectoral debate on how to improve current exploitation mechanisms of nanotechnologies needs to take place. Indeed, though the nanotechnology research base is clearly well established in Europe, commercialising these research efforts is proving difficult.

As a forum for debate, the Open Day on Nanotechnology will focus on the following issues: the international competitive situation of nanotechnologies, the existing barriers to their exploitation, the role of the value chain and the necessary policy initiatives to be undertaken to foster market take-up.

What to expect?

A very interactive format will allow participants to share their experience and best practices – an opportunity to contribute to the final recommendations that will be made to European policy makers in 2011. Statements should reflect as much as possible representative opinions.

Who will attend?

The Open Day is aimed at all essential partners for the successful deployment of nanotechnologies in Europe:

European Commission representatives

Member States representatives

Various industries such as solar, wind, automotive, nano-electronics, construction, ICT

Investment and insurance companies

Experts in technology acceptance

Participation in this event is free. There is a limit of space available (up to 400 participants; once this number of registrations is received, the system will be closed).